On the eve of their first NCAA tournament in eight years, the Washington Huskies rewarded Mike Hopkins with a new six-year contract. It’s believed Hopkins’ new deal will increase his annual salary to a number more on par with the top coaches in the Pac-12.

After announcing his retirement to Seattle media in a small news conference, Ichiro returns to the Tokyo Dome turf to take a victory lap and salute the fans. (Dean Rutz / The Seattle Times)

The Japanese baseball icon burst onto the MLB scene in 2001 and was an All-Star and Gold Glove winner in each of his first 10 seasons with the Mariners. He will be eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2025.

After 27 years learning it under Jim Boeheim at Syracuse, Mike Hopkins is a true believer of the 2-3 zone. That wasn't the case for his players. But the Huskies are all in now. And it's showing. Could it be the key to an extended March run? VIEW

Unfortunately, the joy of success often comes with a punishment: raised expectations. Fortunately, this year's Gonzaga team — which earned its third No. 1 seed on Selection Sunday — might be the best one yet.

Fifteen years after helping lead the program's resurrection during the early days of the Lorenzo Romar era, former player and current assistant coach Will Conroy is an integral part of the Huskies’ turnaround during Mike Hopkins’ second season as Romar’s successor. VIEW